Always

It was another gathering of friends and family in far too short a time. Yes, it was a celebration, but I'd rather be commemorating his round of golf where he scored his age of 79 just last month rather than celebrating and remembering the life of Bill Hall. He was the neighborhood's second dad, someone that you just naturally wanted to spend time sitting beside, or make sure you were on his team for ping pong. At a time when teenagers usually want to avoid adults, Bill Hall was an adult the teenagers willingly sought out. One of the life lessons that I learned from him was to learn people's names, greet them by their name whenever you meet them, and look each person in their eyes. In a campus where there are over 2,000 employees, it's hard to know every name, but I try to remember as many as possible. I can make sure that as I meet someone that I look into their eyes, even if I don't know their name, and recognize them as another child of God. With a ready laugh and a gentle hand of guidance Bill Hall was a natural teacher and encourager. He could also sing! I asked him to sing at our wedding, and I really didn't care what he sang, as long as he agreed to sing. He chose "Always" which was an older song that I knew, but on my own might not have chosen. But tonight, as I revisit the lyrics, what a wonderful choice he made! I can also see that this song doesn't have to remain earthbound, but speaks also to the greatest love of all.

"Always"
I'll be loving you, always
With a love that's true, always
When the things you plan
Need a helping hand
I will understand, always, always
Days may not be fair, always
That's when I'll be there, always
Not for just an hour
Not for just a day
And not for just a year, but, always.

My prayer for the congregation?

Dear God, We are thankful for the lives of those who reach and teach others how to live beyond their own limited expectations. Let us never underestimate the power of meeting another, if not through touch or speech, through the eyes of the soul. We can connect and find our extended family; each one another child of God. O God, you know each of us and call us by name, and we are blessed. You welcome all with a parent's attention to individual needs, recognition of gifts, and a solace for times when days are hard. Your love is everlasting. Let us be better parents to the children in our homes, in our church, in our community, and in the world. Let us show our resolve to love them not for just a day, but always. Amen.